Our Classes

The formal karate grades start with a red belt and progress through the grades to black belt. These grades are called kyu (pronounced queue) grades. At black belt the grades are referred to as Dan grades. This is generally considered the start of their karate careers as all the basics have been learnt.

CHILDREN’S CLASSES

We accept children from 5 years old (subject to suitability) and our introduction course of 4 lessons allows them to see if they like karate and for our instructors to assess their suitability. The atmosphere in this class is of a traditional karate class.

In the children’s class the children will be taught the 3 K’s of karate. Kihon – basics, Kumite – sparring and Kata – forms or patterns. The children are encouraged to work independently whilst under supervision and any individual instruction will be given. All sparring work is grade and age related and children will wear protective equipment. This coupled with expert tuition ensures that kumite is one of the safest sports around today.

The children’s classes are usually split into two or three classes dependent on age and
grade.This ensures that instruction is tailored to their stage of achievement to produce the highest results.

As the grades progress both the amount of work and the level of commitment increases. It is important that children also learn and understand why they are learning techniques and this is as much part of their grades as being able to kick or punch. This teaches children the importance of commitment to a task and rewards them with success and achievement when they attain new belts and levels.

In this traditional class we also teach competition karate to those who wish to compete in competition. There are extra classes for those who wish to compete. At CMA Karate we compete in inter-club, local, area and national/international level of competition.

YOUTH CLASSES

From the age of twelve children are taught in youth classes. These classes may also have high grade children (black belts). Classes are again split on grades.

The syllabus for youths is more extensive than that of children and the standard higher. This reflects their ability to concentrate and focus on what is being achieved. As youths progress to the higher grades we look out for students who may have the right aptitude and attitude to assist in children’s classes and we encourage them to take this responsibility. Separate courses are available to these students.

It is at this time when GCSE and A level examinations are being studied and karate can be a major advantage as it is accepted as a discipline for both of these exams.

COMPETITION CLASSES

These classes are for those students who wish to broaden their horizons and enter the competitive side of karate. We introduce the student to competition firstly in the dojo and then gradually build up to inter-club and local competitions. This eventually leads to national and international level.

The competition arena is dynamic, fast and demanding. Our classes prepare you for this in an equally challenging way.

ADULT CLASSES

We teach karate to many adults although we find most of the adults are parents of karate children.
Adults practice karate for many varied reasons from building confidence to self defence and fitness.

Adults follow the same syllabus as youths which builds slowly on the basics to reach advanced level. We also look for adults with the right ethos and capabilities to go on to teach karate if they would enjoy passing on their knowledge. This coupled with national refereeing and coaching qualifications means that we offer a comprehensive training in the art and way of karate and give back for what we receive.

IN ALL OF OUR CLASSES CHILDREN, YOUTHS AND ADULTS ARE TAUGHT TO EXTEND THEIR OWN ABILITY. WE DON’T ASK THE IMPOSSIBLE BUT WE DO CHALLENGE YOU TO FULFIL YOUR POTENTIAL. THIS YOU WILL FIND IS HIGHER THAN YOU THOUGHT.